Although this atmospheric Mediterranean villa is one of four government-rated five-star hotels in Ascona, it's the most romantically appealing. Set about 4 Kms. (1/4 mile) from the heart of town, connected by an antique shuttle bus that makes hourly runs back and forth, this glamorous, Mediterranean-styled villa was built on a large plot of land in 1986. Today, its structure incorporates Portuguese and Italian tilework, Veronese marble, antique Swiss panels imported from very old weinstubes in Zurich, and some of the most sophisticated interior decor in the region. The spacious bedrooms are cozy and plushly accessorized, and one room is set aside for those with limited mobility. Most alluring of all is the lavish garden (il giardino), whose illuminated lily pond is covered with a moveable stage for the entertainment, which is sometimes provided after 8pm.
Gault Millau 1998 has chosen Hotel Giardino as "Hotel of the Year" and in the "Bilanz" ranking of the 100 best Swiss hotels it was Number One in 1998, 1999, 2000 and 2001.
Ristorante Aphrodite the à la carte Hotel Restaurant, offers an opulent breakfast buffet in the morning, at lunchtime the Mediterranean lunch buffet, and a choice of 17 dishes in the evening, with daily variations. In summer, meals are served on the covered terrace next to the water lily pond. The varied assortment of creations from all over the world, created by Head Chef Ulf Braunert, has once again been honoured with the "Best Hotel Restaurant in Switzerland" award.
The Hotel Giardino is the perfect place to really unwind and relax. Its flower drenched entrance sets the feeling of holiday and as you check in sitting down the warm welcome of a glass of delicious sparkling wine or fresh orange juice makes you never want to leave this oasis of calm. The Lake Maggiore marina is just a block away, and you have access to many leisure activities.